Music Discovery: a musician who completely changes the way you hear, see and experience music. Cheers to 2020!
The female-male vocals within this duo, along with their folksy/ twang/indie sound bring many textures to their music. Their tracks are done with such grace and poise, that it feels like the music is physically moving, causing it to flood through the listener.
Where to start listening: “Poison & Wine,” “Falling,” “I Had Me a Girl”
I can safely say I’ve never heard another musician who sounds anything even close to James Blake. His ethereal vocals and incredible use of sound – not to mention his frequent collaborations with artists from every genre – produce exquisite albums, each guaranteed to let your mind drift off to the best parts of outer space.
Where to start listening: “Retrograde,” “The Wilhelm Scream,” “I Need a Forest Fire (feat. Bon Iver)”
You’ve got funk, soul and good ol’ rock ‘n roll vibes with Alabama Shakes. But the real star is Brittany Howard’s bad ass vocals – they tell so many stories with each and every lyric. Completely untouchable.
Where to start listening: “Hold On,” “Don’t Wanna Fight,” “This Feeling”
This Irish indie-rocker’s music is all power. Whether it’s with a full backing band, or just him and his guitar, his voice is always the strongest instrument. His music alone allows him to say so much; the listener remains forever moved.
Where to start listening: “Work Song,” “Nina Cried Power (feat. Mavis Staples),” “Movement”
A 3-person band, led by Hannah Reid’s stunning vocals, which carry a heaviness and wisdom far beyond her years. It’s nearly impossible to resist the pull of their music, which means you’re bound to get all wrapped up into it. You’ll thank me later.
Where to start listening: “Hey Now,” “Wasting My Young Years,” “Everyone Else”
I first heard a relatively unheard of Eilish perform on The Late Late Show with James Corden, and she blew me away. She continues to fascinate with her music, as there’s no one out there doing anything like her – from both a sound and vocal perspective. And she just turned 18 (!)
Where to start listening: “Everything I Wanted,” “Ocean Eyes,” “Bad Guy”
There’s a magnitude to their music, an orchestral vibe that goes hand in hand with Florence’s dynamic vocals, dramatic lyrics, and whimsical demeanor. You often feel like you’re floating through their songs, watching them unfold. A truly glorious musical experience.
Where to start listening: “Dog Days Are Over,” “You’ve Got the Love,” “Long & Lost”
It’s pretty hard to categorize Bastille’s music: it’s pop, indie, rock, electronic, but mostly so much fun. Their lyrics make you think, their sound makes you move, but most importantly, their music is infectious – once you start listening, you won’t be able to stop.
Where to start listening: Their first album, Bad Blood (or the extended version, All This Bad Blood.)
Soulful, beautiful, thoughtful music. tClark knows just how to dig right in and get you to feel every emotion possible with his velvety smooth voice, and incredible guitar licks. You’ll be instantly swept away.
Where to start listening: “Things Are Changin’,” “The Life,” “You Saved Me”
I am always in awe of everything these guys do. It’s perfect music, lyrically, musically and emotionally. You feel everything all over, in your bones, and just when they’ve broken you to pieces, they bring you back to life. Their music simultaneously hurts so bad, and makes you dance. Truly sensational
Where to start listening: All 3 of their albums – The xx, Coexist and I See You – in their entirety.
Me vs. the Music 